Nepal safe, tourists asked not to postpone visit

**Lumbini Development Trust Assures International Tourists of Safety Following Localized Floods**

**BHAIRAHAWA, Sept. 5** — The Lumbini Development Trust has issued a statement to the international community confirming that Lumbini and the majority of Nepal’s tourist destinations remain safe and fully operational following recent flood-related incidents.

The clarification comes amid concerns that reports of flooding in specific regions have created a global misconception that the entire country has been impacted by natural disasters. While flooding on August 26 caused significant loss of life and property in the Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading districts, the Trust emphasized that these impacts were geographically limited.

According to the Trust, major religious and tourist sites—including Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Gautam Buddha, as well as Kapilvastu, Devadaha, and Ramgram—remain unaffected and accessible. Tourism services, including hotels, transportation, and guide operations, are functioning normally within the “Greater Lumbini Area.”

“Nepal as a whole is now safe to visit, with major tourist destinations, cultural heritage sites, pilgrimage centres, and tourism services operating normally,” the Trust stated. “Visitors can continue their travel and pilgrimage plans with confidence, while following local travel updates and guidance where necessary.”

The initiative to clarify the situation follows discussions among tourism entrepreneurs and lawmakers, who expressed concern that inaccurate international reporting could unnecessarily deter visitors. During a recent meeting of the House of Representatives, lawmakers urged the government to proactively communicate that the majority of the country remains open and safe for travel.

Tourism stakeholders emphasized the importance of effective communication to ensure that localized disasters do not cause undue harm to the national tourism industry. The Lumbini Development Trust reiterated its readiness to welcome international visitors, noting that the region continues to serve as a center for peace and harmony.

Article and image source: risingnepaldaily.com